Associate Scientist / Scientist, mRNA Process Development

A*STAR Research; Singapore; On-site; SGD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

NATi, hosted by A*STAR, seeks an Associate Scientist/Scientist to lead mRNA process development across vaccine candidates. You will develop IVT mRNA synthesis, purification, and characterization, enabling IND submissions.

The role requires hands-on molecular biology, ELISA, and analytical assays in a dynamic biotech setting. Successful candidates will contribute across discovery to IND-enabling stages, collaborate in cross-functional teams, and help push translational RNA therapeutics forward in

Qualifications

• BS or MS in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biochemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences or related field.
• 4+ years with MS or 7+ years with BS in RNA Biochemistry or Pharmaceutical Sciences.
• Experience with ex-vivo cell-based assays and standard molecular biology tools.
• Hands-on experience with ELISA, Western Blot, SDS-PAGE and RNA biochemistry methods.

Responsibilities

• Develop synthesis/purification processes for plasmid DNA, cell-free DNA and IVT mRNA for RNA modalities.
• Develop DNA/mRNA characterization tools including CGE, HPLC, ELISA and cell-based expression assays.
• Maintain SOPs and batch records to ensure reproducibility and IND readiness.
• Maintain records in LIMS/ELN for data integrity and reproducibility.
• Prepare technical reports and regulatory documentation; support tech transfer to CDMOs.

Skills

ELISA

Western Blot

SDS-PAGE

RT-PCR

Cloning

Primer design

Data analysis

Troubleshooting

Education

Biochemistry

Molecular Biology

Biochemical Engineering

Pharmaceutical Sciences

Tools

SnapGene

GraphPad Prism

Excel

HPLC

Job description

Job Title

Associate Scientist/Scientist, mRNA Process Development

Requisition ID: 2923 Posting Start Date: 15/07/2026

About NATi

The Nucleic Acid Therapeutics Initiative (NATi), hosted by A*STAR, is Singapore’s national platform dedicated to advancing RNA-based medicines and revolutionizing drug and vaccine development. NATi’s mission is to establish Singapore as a globally recognized hub of excellence in nucleic acid therapeutics research, clinical translation, and commercialization.

NATi focuses on key RNA modalities such as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), small interfering RNA (siRNA), and messenger RNA (mRNA). To drive this vision, NATi is building a biotech-like translational engine focused on asset and technology development spanning discovery to clinical development.

We are actively seeking highly motivated, experienced and committed scientist with laboratory skills to join us in advancing the next generation of RNA-based vaccines and therapeutics.

Position Overview

The Associate Scientist/Scientist, mRNA Process Development will work to develop mRNA vaccines and immunotherapies across multiple therapeutic programs. This role is important to NATi’s strategy, supporting development of multiple vaccine and immunotherapy candidates from discovery/pre-clinical to IND-enabling stages.

The successful candidate will have prior experience and proven track record in the academic or biotech laboratory settings.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop processes for the synthesis of bacterial plasmid DNA, cell-free DNA and in-vitro transcribed (IVT) mRNA for different RNA therapeutic modalities (circRNA, saRNA, Linear mRNA)
• Develop purification methods (chromatography, tangential flow filtration) for plasmid DNA, cell-free DNA and mRNA
• Develop DNA and mRNA characterization tools including, but not limited, to capillary gel electrophoresis (CGE), HPLC, ELISA, cell-based protein expression, UV Spectroscopy and fluorescence assays
• Develop and maintain SOPs and batch records to ensure reproducibility, compliance, and readiness for IND submission.
• Maintain accurate records using LIMS/ELN systems to support data integrity and reproducibility.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation to support internal decision-making and external regulatory submissions.
• Support tech transfer activities to external CDMOs, including preparation of reports, training, and troubleshooting support.
• Support regulatory submissions by generating reports and contributing to CMC documentation.

Qualifications & Experience

• BS or MS degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biochemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4+ (with MS degree) or 7+ (with BS degree) years of experience in the field related to RNA Biochemistry or Pharmaceutical Sciences. Industry experience preferred but not required.
• Knowledgeable and skilled in designing and conducting ex-vivo cell-based assays.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience in ELISA, Western Blot, SDS-PAGE, standard molecular biology and RNA biochemistry tools (primer design, cloning, RT-PCR, PCR, DNA/RNA extraction and purification)
• Knowledge on nucleic acids purification tools (AEX, HIC & Affinity Chromatography, IP-RP HPLC) preferred
• Ability to use SnapGene, GraphPad Prism and Excel.
• Strong problem-solving skills and decision-making skills with the ability to troubleshoot experimental processes and provide analysis.
• Comfortable with fast-changing environment and flexible to effectively deliver results within reasonably established timelines.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a cross-functional, fast-paced multidisciplinary environment.

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